Understanding Southeast Asia: Syncretism in Commonalities

Beginning with the common origins of Southeast Asia’s peoples and languages, their shared heritage is emphasized through agricultural, archeological, cultural, geographical, historical, linguistic, religious and technological fields. Perennially defined by rice, stability and commerce, Southeast Asia has evolved a common trading ethic and morality influenced by China and India long before a short European colonial interlude. Historically known as a Golden Land, the region exudes a resilience founded in millennium-long traditions that are today expressed through local adaptations of world religions.

In acknowledging the region’s integrated worldviews and tolerance of opposing approaches, this work will inform a new generation of Western understanding about Southeast Asian politics, decision-making and ASEAN. It will also support the young educated elite of the region to see themselves in a new and proud light.